On Saturday 17th May, 2024, we had a Pad Drive initiative with the aim of supporting menstrual hygiene for girls in need. This initiative was a response to the lack of adequate education on menstrual health for girls in Kenya, mostly due to social stigma, cultural backgrounds and shame. As we arrived, we were met with nervous smiles and interested looks as soon as we entered the school. The students appeared uncertain about what to anticipate. By the time we departed, however, there was a sense of connection, warmth, and laughing that none of us will soon forget.
Breaking The Stigma
Girls’ empowerment encompasses many aspects of her life. Starting from girlhood, not many families, schools and societies give a warm reception to the transition to childhood to girlhood without harmful expectations placed on her. Normalizing the discussion of menstruation is one of our main objectives at Tunza Dada. Too many girls still experience shame or embarrassment when they are menstruating, and some even skip school because they lack the necessary resources or assistance.
So we started our visit with an honest conversation. We created a safe space where the girls could ask questions—anything and everything. And they did. We talked about what a healthy menstrual cycle looks like, how to manage pain and hygiene, and most importantly, why there’s no shame in menstruating
Answering Questions Relating to Menstruation
Just before the distribution on sanitary products, we had a great Question and Answer Session, where all the students could ask any question freely. Here we had a wide range of questions from ‘Hygiene during your menstrual cycle’ ‘How to handle pain and discomfort’ ‘What are signs that indicate that I should seek medical care during my cycle?’.
We also did not leave out the male students. It is equally important to know about this topic. These were the major points discussed;
- Menstruation is normal and natural-
Menstruation is a healthy and natural part of life for girls and women. It’s how the female body prepares for the possibility of pregnancy. It usually happens once a month and is not something to be ashamed of.
- It’s Not “Dirty
Periods are not dirty or gross. It’s just blood and tissue leaving the body. Girls aren’t “unclean” when they’re menstruating—they’re just going through a normal biological process, like sweating or sneezing. It is important to note that due to many taboos and misconceptions about menstruation. Menstruation is a natural, healthy bodily process. There’s nothing unclean about it. It simply involves the shedding of the uterine lining, which is part of a woman’s reproductive cycle.
Another misconception is that periods should be kept secret. We explained to them is that so many girls are taught to be silent about their periods, this secrecy creates shame and misinformation. Open, respectful conversations about menstruation promote dignity and education
Another misconception is that A girl’s first period means she’s ready for marriage or sex. Menarche (a girl’s first period) is a biological milestone, not a sign of emotional or mental maturity. Girls deserve time to grow, learn, and thrive before being pressured into adult responsibilities.
These myths often lead to shame, isolation, missed school days, and health issues. In some cultures, girls are even banished to huts or excluded from social life during their periods. Education, compassion, and open dialogue can break these harmful beliefs.
We shared tips with the male students on how they can support their fellow female classmates during that time of the month by;
- Not making fun of or teasing the girls.
- Offering help if a classmate seems uncomfortable or stained- Laughing at a girl because of a stain on her skirt, or calling her names like “moody” or “emotional” because of her period, is never okay. It’s bullying. Boys should be allies, not bystanders
- Speaking up if someone is being mean or spreading myths.
- Understanding if a girl needs to skip P.E. or rest.
- Symptoms of periods
This was an important aspect which we discussed during our talk. We informed the girls on the different physical and emotional/mental symptoms that they may have and can vary every cycle.
- Bleeding
- Cramps
- Headaches or migraines
- Nausea
- Changes in the digestive system
- Bloating
- Acne
- Breast tenderness
- Back pain
Emotional and mental symptoms
- Anxiety
- Mood swings
- Food cravings
- Trouble sleeping
- Crying or sadness
We also told the girls that some discomfort is normal, but if any of the following occur, it’s a good idea to speak to a doctor:
- Extremely painful cramps that interfere with daily life.
- Very heavy bleeding (changing pads every hour).
- Periods that last more than 7 days.
- Missed periods for several months (without pregnancy).
- Severe mood changes or depression.
After our active question and answer session, we distributed the sanitary products. Each girl received their packs of sanitary pads. For some girls, getting these pads meant they wouldn’t have to use tissue, rags, or miss school anymore. It meant they could show up, confident and comfortable, in their classrooms, just like everyone else.
But we didn’t stop there. Alongside the pads, we gave them affirmations reminding them that they are strong, capable, and worthy. Because menstrual health is not just about products, it’s about dignity, education, and empowerment.
At Tunza Dada, we believe in nurturing every girl’s journey with love, knowledge, and practical support. And we will keep showing up—school by school, story by story—until every girl knows that her body is powerful, not something to be hidden. The Pad Drive was more than a one-day visit. It was a step towards equity in education, bodily autonomy, and self-respect. Every girl deserves to go through her period without fear, shame, or missing out on her dreams.
